Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a dish that combines crispy, spicy, creamy, and fresh all in one bite, then this Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe will become your new go-to favorite. These tacos bring together perfectly fried shrimp tossed in a luscious, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce, nestled inside soft tortillas alongside crunchy slaw and bright garnishes. Every mouthful bursts with layers of flavor and texture that create a truly irresistible taco experience. Trust me, once you dive into this recipe, your taco nights will never be the same!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet come together harmoniously to build the magic of the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe. From the shrimp’s tender bite to the sauce’s creamy-spicy kick, each element plays a vital role in giving this dish its unforgettable character.

• Shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined for easy cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces.
• Buttermilk (1/2 cup): Used to marinate the shrimp, ensuring juicy and tender texture.
• Cornstarch (1/2 cup): Adds that extra crispiness to the fried shrimp coating.
• All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Works alongside cornstarch to create a light, flavorful crust.
• Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Gives a subtle savory note to the breading mix.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Vegetable oil: For frying — choose a neutral oil that heats well and crisps the shrimp perfectly.
• Small tortillas (8): Flour or corn, warmed to soft perfection for wrapping those flavorful fillings.
• Shredded lettuce or cabbage slaw (1 cup): Adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness.
• Diced green onions (1/4 cup): A mild onion flavor with vibrant color as garnish.
• Optional toppings: Sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges to personalize every bite.
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy base for our luscious bang bang sauce.
• Sweet chili sauce (1/4 cup): Provides sweetness and a slight tang to balance the heat.
• Sriracha (1–2 tbsp): Adds the signature spicy kick—adjust to suit your heat preference.
• Honey (1 tbsp, optional): A hint of sweetness to round out the sauce wonderfully.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by popping the peeled and deveined shrimp into a bowl with buttermilk, and let them soak for 10 to 15 minutes. This simple step tenderizes the shrimp while adding a subtle tang that complements the spicy sauce beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mix

While the shrimp soak, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. This mixture creates the irresistible coating that crisps up so well when fried.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour 1 to 2 inches of vegetable oil into a skillet and heat it over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking. Proper oil temperature is key to a perfectly crispy frying job without greasy shrimp.

Step 4: Coat and Fry the Shrimp

Remove each shrimp from the buttermilk and dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring every curve is covered. Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding—about 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Then, lay them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Whisk Together the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey (if you love that extra sweetness) into a perfectly balanced bang bang sauce. This creamy, spicy mixture is the star accompaniment for the crispy shrimp.

Step 6: Toss Shrimp in Sauce

Drop the fried shrimp into the sauce bowl and toss gently until each piece is luxuriously coated. The sauce clings to the crispy texture, promising a mouthwatering flavor with every bite.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos

Warm your tortillas until flexible, then layer in shredded lettuce or slaw for crunch. Top with the bang bang-coated shrimp to create the heart of the taco. This classic combo keeps every taco balanced and fresh.

Step 8: Add Garnishes

Sprinkle diced green onions, add sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice if you like brightness. These final touches add color, flavor bursts, and a little zing that make the tacos truly shine.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe immediately to enjoy the crisp shrimp and vibrant garnishes at their best. These tacos are perfect for a lively dinner with friends or a casual weeknight treat.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Garnishes

The garnishes you choose are game changers. Fresh diced green onions add a mild onion flavor and crunch, while creamy avocado slices bring richness that cools down the heat. Chopped cilantro infuses herbal brightness, and a squeeze of lime juice provides an exciting citrus pop that lifts the whole dish.

Side Dishes

Pair these tacos with light, refreshing sides like a crisp cucumber salad or a tangy cabbage slaw to complement the richness of the shrimp. For a heartier meal, Mexican street corn or black beans make fantastic companions, balancing textures and flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the toppings family-style and let everyone build their own tacos. Alternatively, pile the saucy shrimp over crispy tostadas for crunch lovers or create a vibrant taco salad bowl featuring all the flavors with no tortilla in sight. The Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe is versatile and shines in numerous presentations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the fried shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping the shrimp from sitting in the sauce ensures they stay crispy longer, and the tortillas are best warmed fresh when ready to eat.

Freezing

Fried shrimp can be frozen, but for best texture, freeze them before saucing. Arrange the fried shrimp on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in a hot oven to regain crispiness.

Reheating

Reheat shrimp gently in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes to revive their crunch without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coating soggy. Warm tortillas separately to keep everything fresh and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating. Removing excess moisture helps the batter stick well and ensures your shrimp gets perfectly crispy.

How spicy is the bang bang sauce? Can I adjust it?

The sauce has a nice kick from the sriracha, but nothing overwhelming. You can easily customize the heat level by using less or more sriracha or even swapping it for a milder chili sauce if preferred.

What type of tortillas work best?

Both flour and corn tortillas work well for these tacos. Flour tortillas are softer and more pliable, while corn adds a subtle corn flavor that pairs beautifully. Choose based on your texture preference or what you have on hand.

Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?

You can bake the shrimp for a lighter option, but keep in mind that frying gives the iconic crunch that makes this Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe so delicious. To bake, coat shrimp as directed and place on a greased baking sheet, cooking at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

Definitely! Crispy cauliflower florets battered and tossed in bang bang sauce make a fantastic vegetarian substitute. They provide a similar crunch and soak up the flavors wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

Making the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe at home is not only super fun, but it also rewards you with a vibrant, mouthwatering meal that feels special yet comes together so easily. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, these tacos deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and let the fiesta begin—these tacos are waiting to become an instant classic in your kitchen!

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